What is Independent Living?
Independent living is a lifestyle option for seniors who want to pursue their passions without the hassle of things like household chores. These communities give you the chance to trade the worries of homeownership like basic utilities, maintenance and landscaping, for the true comforts of home. Most independent living communities are designed to feel and function like a private residence while giving you opportunities to participate in fun social activities like fitness classes, social gatherings and excursions.
Is Independent Living Right for Me?
Choosing a lifestyle option that suits your needs can be a challenging decision, and this is especially true when it comes to senior living. With so many options available, it's easy to feel confused and unsure about which one to choose.
Independent living might be a good fit if you desire:
- A Vibrant Lifestyle — You crave an active and social lifestyle without home maintenance responsibilities.
- Independence — You are in good health and can manage daily activities such as bathing, dressing and preparing meals.
- Life Enhancement — You want access to amenities and services that improve their quality of life such as fitness centers, social events and transportation services.
- Few Worries — You want to downsize and simplify your life while maintaining your independence.
Services Offered at Brookdale Independent Living Communities
Each of our communities is unique, and so are the services and amenities that they offer. But here are some common services that are often found at independent living communities:
Social Programming
Surrounding yourself with people who share your common interests is an important part of life. Because each community has all kinds of fun experiences and events, you can make friends, learn new skills and challenge yourself to always be growing.
Dining Services
Our dining rooms serve our residents delicious home-cooked meals, and each menu is developed with good nutrition in mind. Some communities even serve regional favorites and let you make suggestions on what you’d like to see on the menu next.
Transportation
Take advantage of our scheduled transportation services to attend doctor’s appointments, the post office or local shopping centers. You can even head out for an afternoon excursion with your friends if you want to shake up your usual routine!
Support and Concierge Services
Curious if you can get a little extra help with errands or walking the dog? Check with your local independent living community to see if they provide support and concierge services. A concierge can even provide recommendations for local spots!
Independent living communities are good for seniors who want to downsize their home or spend more time with people in their same season of life. Because these communities provide residents with a home-like environment, fun-filled activities, quality dining and an engaging social calendar, it’s a great place for those who want to stay active and healthy without the hassle of things like household chores.
Assisted living communities are designed for seniors who need a little extra help with activities like managing medication, bathing and dressing. Residents usually have their own apartment that they can decorate as they wish and have access to community amenities like dining programs, social activities and more.
You may be a good candidate if you want a place to live that requires little or no home maintenance and yard work, you want to socialize with your peers and broaden your social network, you want to enjoy activities and meals in the company of others, and you wouldn’t mind having someone else take care of housekeeping and the laundry for you.
One of the best parts of being in an independent living community is having access to a wide variety of activities, events and excursions. You can enjoy everything from physical fitness classes and educational workshops to Wii bowling tournaments and resident happy hours. Here at Brookdale, residents enjoy all kinds of exciting programs like our signature B-Fit exercise program, which encompasses the latest research and guidelines to give you a fun, stimulating and social exercise experience.
Independent living communities offer all kinds of fun classes, activities and outings. It’s a wonderful place to meet people who share your interests and passions. And whether or not you want to participate is your choice. Join the activities you want to enjoy or focus on your own hobbies. It’s up to you.
We offer a variety of room sizes and floor plans so you can choose the one that’s right for you. The styles vary between communities, but floor plan options include studio apartments and one, two or three-bedroom apartments. Each apartment includes a private bathroom, and some feature a kitchen or kitchenette. Couples can usually live in the same apartment, but it’s wise to check with the community first.
Some of our independent living communities have different guidelines, but you are often welcome to bring personal belongings and furnishings to make your new space feel more like home. We always encourage our residents to personalize their apartment so it feels comfortable, inviting and relaxing.
While independent living communities can vary from location to location, our Brookdale communities provide residents and their guests with delicious meals that are healthy and nutritionally balanced. Residents enjoy great food and service with menus developed by the Culinary Arts Institute of Brookdale.
You are not required to have a car to live at one of our communities. We provide scheduled transportation services so you can run errands and make your appointments without dealing with the hassle of driving and parking. However, if you still want to drive, many of our communities allow residents to have cars.
Pets are an important part of the family, which is why our communities are pet-friendly. Be sure to check with your individual community before you arrive in case there are weight or breed restrictions.
Since arriving, we have been thrilled by the friendship of the residents and staff. The excellent food makes you want to go and eat in the company of other residents. The myriad of activities is wonderful."
You like the idea of independent living, but can you afford it?
Discover the experiences and amenities you could be enjoying in independent living.
Here are some helpful tips to help you decide if independent living is right for you.